Track conceived as celebration of singer’s legacy, features musicians from London’s Trinity Laban Conservatoire
For World Music Day 2026, Indian composer AR Rahman revealed the teaser for Asha Forever, a special tribute recorded with the iconic playback singer Asha Bhosle before her passing in April. The record features the legendary vocalist alongside musicians from London’s Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, an institution where Rahman serves as Honorary President.
Rather than a poignant farewell, the song was initially intended as a celebration of Bhosle’s unparalleled contribution to Indian and global music, conceptualised and recorded while the singer was still alive.
According to Rahman, Bhosle’s voice is the greatest gift to Indian and global cinema, serving as a profound guiding force throughout his own career. Recalling their time in the studio, the composer shared that Bhosle actively insisted the song be fun and energetic, reflecting her irrepressible creative spirit and timeless appeal.
“Even when we were recording this, the energy and warmth she brought to the studio was amazing. That’s the spirit that makes her truly timeless,” Rahman remarked, reminiscing about the lively atmosphere during the tracking sessions.
He further expressed his admiration in an Instagram post, detailing the history and intent behind the collaboration. “This tribute began as a dream while Asha Bhosle ji was still with us. We had hoped she would witness the love and gratitude this project carries,” he wrote in the caption.
“Around the world, we celebrate musical legends. We are blessed to have one of our own, an artist whose voice became the soundtrack of countless lives,” Rahman added.
The composer shared his vision for the track, stating, “The most meaningful tribute felt like bringing together different musicians, traditions, and sounds to celebrate her extraordinary legacy. This is our humble offering to Asha ji. May her music continue to inspire hearts for generations to come.”
The duo’s collaborative journey dates back decades, yielding some of Indian cinema’s biggest hits, including Rangeela Re, Tanha Tanha, Kahin Aag Lage, and Radha Kaise Na Jale. The long-standing creative partnership adds poignancy to Asha Forever, positioning the track as a natural and definitive continuation of the late singer’s shared musical history with Rahman.
Behind-the-scenes glimpses in the teaser also show Bhosle inside the recording studio alongside Rahman, depicting her active involvement and the collaborative magic of the process. The approach reflects Rahman’s ultimate vision: honouring a legacy by uniting varied musical voices from around the world.